Learn how to Achieve Excellence in Handling New Substrate
From a brand perspective, we all know that packaging takes its own sufficient time. We don’t bother to ask “why” from our packaging partner. And in case we think to go deeper, we try to change the substrates as per global trend. Without giving a thought on its relevancy with our product. This topic tries to nudge on overcoming counterproductive PVC which is used in Packaging.
We are discussing the much newer substrates – NEXT PETG and PETG with this article. Many countries have switched its packaging from harmful PVC to sustainable or recyclable ones. These changes in India are under progress and a complete switchover is imminent. This is the perfect time to learn new substrates.
Let’s take PETG and analyse how technical proficiency is required to handle it. PETG give best result in steam tunnel. It is usually opted by beverage brands. It shows good compatibility with various bottles type like PET, PP or HDPE particularly with PET containers. PETG has more shrinkage ratio, at higher temperature (more than recommended) rigidity appears, hence it is not a preferred choice for hot-air tunnel. Wrinkle effect is obvious with PETG if slightest variation in temperature is ignored. This is just a start, there are numerous challenges that defines perfect shrink in PETG. Air entrapment, distortion, Hot Melt issue, Shrink Force, SIT, etc. are a few of them which is impossible to discuss at once.
Another such complex substrate is NEXT PETG. This is less known substrate in the market. This substrate has an advantage over PETG. It is opted in both hot-air tunnel and steam tunnel. It is more flexible than most grades of PETG. With its carefully designed shrinkage, loosening of the sleeves is rarely seen with NEXT PETG. It offers better value for money than other non-harmful substrates.